intro of rhetoric

-->

On a daily basis, I have found I am exposed to Rhetoric. Rhetoric is the tool which can be used to persuade and is often used in modern advertising, politics, and magazines to sell an idea. Whether it is to convince someone to buy a certain product, become interested in something, or believe your point, Rhetoric will be used. Speakers, writers, and filmmakers all use rhetoric in order to engage their audience and impress upon them a certain idea or perspective. A rhetorical argument can use several tools. 

Logos are one of those tools, and it works by appealing to the viewers or readers logic and intelligence. An advertisement which used Logos would seek to demonstrate the superiority of their product or service by providing fact, statistics, and surveys. Are argument which uses logos will try to appeal to its audiences logic.

Another rhetorical tool, Ethos, seeks to convince by establishing trust or authority. Many ads which use celebrity endorsements are appealing to the viewers sense of ethos. Many advertisements and political cartoons will try to build a reputation, and to make themselves known among their audience.

Almost all advertisements and commercials will make use of Pathos, which is to appeal to an audiences' emotions. This includes the widespread use of humor in order to make a point memorable. Other very common uses include appealing to one's sympathy, as with many charities seeking donations. These people will show images of those in need, and describe difficult life situations of those they are trying to aid. Anger is another common tool which is used especially in politics. A political faction will often try to demonstrate how their adversary is imposing on the public's rights or benefits. Anger is oftentimes used to create a common enemy and therefore convince the audience they are the best choice to vote for.